A new study suggests that Americans care more about future generations than they realise, but systematically underestimate the concern of their fellow citizens. The research, published in the journal Futures, surveyed 1,000 US adults and found that people on average extend moral concern to about 28 generations—roughly 700 years—into the future. However, they guessed that other Americans would stop caring after 21 generations, or about 525 years.
The study also examined views on policy horizons. Respondents said society and the government should consider people living 16 to 17 generations ahead (400–425 years), but assumed other Americans would endorse a shorter horizon of only 13 generations (around 325 years). This mismatch suggests a widespread misperception of public sentiment.
Researchers warn that such misperceptions could dampen support for long-term policies on climate change, pandemic preparedness, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. When people wrongly believe their views are unusual, they may be less likely to speak up or pressure leaders to act.
Unlike climate policy, concern for future generations is not heavily politicised. Yet it is rarely voiced in daily conversation or the media, which may contribute to the false impression that few care. The authors call for further research into why this concern remains invisible in public life.
“It’s possible that a person might support stronger emissions cuts or better disease-prevention systems but stay quiet if they assume most other Americans do not care about long-term consequences,” the study notes. The findings highlight a gap between actual and perceived values that could hinder progress on issues affecting generations to come.
